Whether it's for career networking, social gatherings, or job events, working a room is often a daunting task, especially for shy people. To help you get out and make the connections you need to have a good time, Forbes suggests coming up with a purpose beforehand to help you find people to talk to.

The reasons don't have to be concrete and are actually better when they're fluid. Forbes explains:

Remind yourself why you are there. You are using your precious time to network and to make some useful connections, so make sure you aren't wasting energy. Set a couple of targets like: speak to three new people; or try to learn at least two new pieces of information or gossip.

This adds purpose to your meanderings and can help you break the ice if you're not comfortable in big social gatherings. Check out the post over on Forbes for a few more tips to start working the room like you own the place.